Abstract: A method of stiffening the integral ribs of a panel to prevent crippling of the ribs during forming of the panel. The method provides that anti-crippling stiffeners are attached to the ribs, such as by using clamps. Then, the panel is formed while the anti-crippling stiffeners are attached to the ribs. The anti-crippling stiffeners add stiffness to the ribs and prevent the ribs from crippling during forming of the panel. The anti-crippling stiffeners could be C-shaped and be attached to the panel using C-shaped clamps. Both the panel and the anti-crippling stiffeners could be formed of aluminum. Another embodiment involves clamping at least one anti-crippling strap to the flange of a wing stringer to prevent the flange from crippling during forming of the wing stringer.

Abstract: A method of stiffening the integral ribs of a panel to prevent crippling of the ribs during forming of the panel. The method provides that anti-crippling stiffeners are attached to the ribs, such as by using clamps. Then, the panel is formed while the anti-crippling stiffeners are attached to the ribs. The anti-crippling stiffeners add stiffness to the ribs and prevent the ribs from crippling during forming of the panel. The anti-crippling stiffeners could be C-shaped and be attached to the panel using C-shaped clamps. Both the panel and the anti-crippling stiffeners could be formed of aluminum. Another embodiment involves clamping at least one anti-crippling strap to the flange of a wing stringer to prevent the flange from crippling during forming of the wing stringer.

Abstract: A spigot extender for a garden hose replaces a standard water spigot, and is comprised of a horizontal pipe with an enlarged circular handle at the front end, and threads for attachment to a water supply pipe at the rear end. Extending downward from the forward portion of the horizontal pipe beneath the handle, a descending pipe is provided which is preferably four to six inches in length. At the lower end of the descending pipe, threads are provided for attachment of a garden hose or other device. By replacing the existing spigot, the device of the invention achieves improved utility over standard spigots and temporary extension devices by providing both a valve control handle and an access pipe that are distinctly elongated a significantly distal to the wall in the location of installation.

Abstract: Models for predicting ice formation and/or accumulation on wind turbine blades and methods of their use in optimizing performance of wind turbines in the presence of adverse local weather conditions are disclosed. In certain embodiments, the predictive models include historical data of local meteorological conditions including, inter alia, wind speed, temperature, and relative humidity conditions and are useful, inter alia, for preemptively managing performance of wind turbines operation/shutdown cycles in response to a future predicted blade icing event based on a model of the present invention.